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RSPCA calls for Grand National changes
Image - Richard Humphrey
Changes recommended to improve safety

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has called for changes to the Grand National to improve safety after the deaths of two horses, According to Pete and Synchronised, at this year's event. The call comes after a review by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) concluded that “factors one could neither have foreseen nor prevented were prevalent in the events that led to the two horses sustaining their injuries."


After taking advice from the equine inspector's team who were present at the jumps and horseracing consultant David Muir, the RSPCA has called for:
  • A reduction in the number of starters to include only experienced jockeys and horses
  • The removal of Becher's Brook
  • A re-design of the cores of fences
  • Levelling of drop landings
  • Changes to the start
  • The automatic withdrawal of horses which bolt and unseat their jockeys
  • An urgent review of communications and positioning of horse catchers
Commenting, RSPCA Chief Executive Gavin Grant said “We need change, a smaller and better qualified field, an end to killer fences like Becher’s Brook, which we believe was instrumental in the deaths of both Synchronised and According To Pete. We hope the BHA and Aintree will work with the RSPCA to make the Grand National a true test of jockeys’ skills but not at the cost of horses’ lives.”

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.